The Big Chop

“The Big Chop” is naturalista lingo
for the act of cutting off all of your chemically processed hair, leaving only
your natural hair. This most times leaves you with 1-2 inches of hair.

This process is normally very
frightening for those who have lived most of their lives with relaxed or
chemically texturized hair. Not only that, if you’ve never sported what many
call boy-short hair before, it can throw you into a serious identity crisis. Consequently,
this decision often comes with much vacillation and reluctance. Seriously, it’s
dramatic to go from the “ease” of silky, untangled, straight ends and roots to
the curly or coily roots and ends that come with a natural mane. Still, once
you have mustered the courage to go natural, the Big Chop is normally the
simplest way to start the process.

Azania, Soul SingerRocking a Big Chop

Immediately following your Big Chop,
you may feel a rush of emotions ranging from separation anxiety to regret to
identity confusion and, then finally liberation. It is quite normal to
experience mixed emotions. You will be faced with the inevitable question:
"I just big chopped, now what?"

Know this. The Big Chop is the best way to grow accustomed to your new
texture. One common mistake that new naturals make is that they expect their
natural hair to do the same things that their processed hair did. Short
natural hair gives you an easy start to grapple with a whole new hair care regimen.

Your new hair texture will require
different products, maintenance regimens and styling techniques.

Natural hair is curly, wavy or kinky
in texture while relaxed hair is typically straight. While moisture is required
in both cases, the methods used to introduce moisture may be very different.
Natural hair, for example, loves water and applying water to it can be very
beneficial.

Here are some great examples of
black natural hairstyles for your Big Chop phase.

Black Natural Hairstyles for Big Chop Phase

Party with a Part in Your Hair

Once you’ve big chopped, you can always jazz up your look
with a funky side part. It may push the androgynous button a bit, considering
your low cut, but you can pull it off. To create your part, all you do is take
a rattail comb to create the part, just as you would in relaxed hair. Then, use
a paddle brush to slick hair down in opposing directions.

Up Your Chunky Jewelry

Chunky accessories like big earrings or busy necklaces are
perfect when you don’t have hair to confuse the eye. From hanging chandeliers
and oversized hoops to knotted necklaces and thick chokers, know that chunky
accessories will add to your look now more than ever.

Try a Pronounced Neckline

Without hair hanging around your shoulders and neck, now is
a perfect opportunity to wear more daring necklines. These necklines are
normally the ones you wear with updos in order to show off the beauty of their design. The absence of hair gives you
more sophistication and helps you to own the dress you’re wearing. V-necklines
are perfect. Cowl and scoop necklines are great alternatives, too.

Rock Natural Hair Accessories

Sparkly headbands, bejeweled barrettes or gold hair clips are
preferred among ladies with short cuts. They are the cutest ways to spruce up
your new doo for a special occasion.

Add Natural Hair Dye

If you really want to make a statement before you leave
your natural hair salon, ask them to give you a bold, daring color with natural
hair dye. How about platinum blonde or sweet auburn? Not only that, your
friends will adjust quicker to your big chop because your radical color will
throw them off.

Bear Bold Lips

The important thing about your face
is that your big chop will call attention to it. Ensure that your face is on
point. That means your foundation, your eyes, your cheeks should all be polished.
Remember, you have no hair to hide your facial structure. Additionally, you don’t
have to shy away from bold lips. Hot pink, bright red, or purple are all shades
that will pop your new look.

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